Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Jesse M. Robredo enthused barangay officials of Iriga City when he encouraged them to face their responsibilities and to dedicate themselves to service during the mass oath-taking of elected barangay and sangguniang kabataan officials on November 27, 2010 at Iriga Plaza Convention Center, Iriga City.

The speech of SILG Robredo delivered in Bicol dialect focused on the fundamental principle that a public official must subscribe to.  SILG Robredo reminded everyone that running in the election was indicative of one’s willingness to serve.  Thus, barangay officials should not be tempted by the comforts that go with their positions, rather, they should think of the people who are in need of their services.

It was stressed that, in the concept of service, everybody has a stake so everyone must be involved.  The SILG also emphasized the value of transparency in governance in line with the thrusts of the present administration

Highlights of the activity included a holy mass, a program & photo sessions of the barangay officials with SILG Robredo.

Two hundred eighty-five (285) barangay officials and two hundred fifty-five (255) sangguniang kabataan officials of the city attended the event.

Regional Director Blandino M. Maceda, Provincial Director Arnel Renato L. Madrideo, LGOO V Anamarie R. Resontoc and LGOO II Ma. Maila Q. Nierva of DILG were around to show their support to the Local Government of Iriga.

Mayor Madelaine A. Gazmen of Iriga City, in a television interview, expressed her gratitude for the support and recognition given by DILG to the efforts of the city.

The City of Iriga, a component city of the Province of Camarines Sur, has thirty-six (36) barangays, fourteen (14) of which are rural and twenty-two (22) are urban barangays. – (LGOO V Kathlyn B. Lopez)